Michael Stinziano, the Franklin County Auditor, is pushing for changes to Ohio’s property tax laws to help homeowners struggling with increasing property taxes. As property values rise, many residents in Franklin County find it challenging to afford their property taxes under the current system. According to The Columbus Dispatch,, Stinziano is calling on state lawmakers to update these laws, aiming to provide more relief for older and disabled homeowners through measures like expanding the Homestead Exemption. This could exempt more of a home’s value from taxes and raise the income limit for eligibility.
Stinziano supports new legislation such as Senate Bill 244, which would establish resident stability zones to protect low-income homeowners from sudden tax hikes. He also backs Senate Bill 271, which proposes property tax circuit breakers to offer refunds to homeowners whose taxes are disproportionately high relative to their income. Additionally, Stinziano’s “Stinziano Solution” includes a program allowing homeowners to defer property tax payments if they are facing financial difficulties.
In his efforts to garner support, Stinziano is urging Franklin County residents to contact their lawmakers and advocate for these proposed reforms. He emphasizes that these changes are essential as property values continue to rise, making it increasingly difficult for homeowners to manage their tax burdens.